SLEEPING OUT OF DOORS 



work projects, seven feet four inches by five 

 feet, covered with canvas to match the awnings, and 

 lined with white oilcloth to keep out the rain. Rods 

 on either side hold canvas curtains with snap hooks, 

 generally remaining against the wall but in case of 

 wind or rain, easily brought forward to the bench and 

 snapped into staples, thus absolutely protecting the oc 

 cupant. Into this Oriental shelter is rolled the light 

 est of hospital beds; brass rods hold up the netting 

 at the four corners, and crossed sticks of bamboo keep 

 the top taut. 



A layer of asbestos in a thin pad, and a paper quilt 

 beneath the mattress, gave sufficient protection against 

 the cold as autumn came, and instead of heavy blankets, 

 wool wadding quilts of silkoline proved light and 

 warm. From the iron headboard hung a bag for slip 

 pers and a smaller one for night light and watch. In 

 pleasant weather one could sleep under the stars as 

 the bed could be rolled out from the canopy in a mo 

 ment. In summer this contrivance is almost completely 



183 



